What is the requirement for bags used to collect bacterial samples?

Bags used to collect bacterial samples must be sterilized to ensure that they do not introduce any contaminants that could skew the results of the analysis. The presence of foreign microorganisms in the sample can lead to incorrect data, resulting in misleading conclusions about the bacterial content of the wastewater being tested. By using sterilized bags, analysts maintain the integrity of the sample, allowing for accurate identification and quantification of bacteria present in the water.

While reusable options might seem practical from an environmental standpoint, they could harbor residual contaminants that compromise sample integrity. Biodegradable or disposable bags do have their benefits; however, without proper sterilization, they might also lead to contamination issues. Hence, the requirement for sterilization is paramount in the collection of bacterial samples for reliable testing outcomes.